The BIG List: Rap’s 30 Most Powerful Album Intros (#24 – 23)

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Brand Nubian’s Grand Puba, Sadat X and Lord Jamar used a bunch of James Brown samples to help introduce themselves to the world. It wasn’t the strongest track on the album (save that distinction for “Slow Down”) but it did showcase what all three MCs were capable of doing in the booth.

#23: Big L

“Put It On,” from Lifestylez ov Da Poor & Dangerous (1995)

See, now this is what we’re talking about. L knew he had skills on the mic. So rather than waste the first track on his first album telling you what he could do on it, he showed you. The result is a strong first single, featuring a Kid Capri single that could still liven up a party. L put it on from jump here.